The lava flows and ash clouds were probably caused by the collapse of a flank of Etna’s southeast crater, authorities said, adding there was no danger to the population.

A massive eruption at Mt. Etna forced tourists to flee the volcano on Monday after a plume of high temperature gases, ash and rock “several kilometers high” billowed into the air above them, Italian authorities said.

Tourists have been told to check for warnings before climbing towards the summit of Italy's Mount Etna after an eruption sent hikers scurrying for safety.